Implant dentistry is versatile. Whether you’re missing one tooth or missing them all, implant treatment can help; they can provide patients with a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
If you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to understand the entire process from start to finish. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what happens before and after your dental implant procedure.
We’ll also discuss some of the benefits of choosing dental implants over other types of damaged teeth replacement options. By the end of this post, you should have a good understanding of what to expect before, during, and after your dental implant surgery.
Dental Implants are a Popular Choice for Tooth Replacement
Dental implants have quickly become a popular option when it comes to tooth replacement. Offering a more secure and permanent solution, dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire set of teeth.
In contrast to the traditional use of dentures for tooth replacement, implants are rooted into the jawbone, which means there is no need for re-alignment or the possibility of slippage.
Additionally, dental implants preserve facial structure because they don’t require the support of other teeth. Plus, oral hygiene is easier with proper brushing and flossing habits, as it’s easy to access the implant surface with everyday bristle brushes.
For all these reasons, more and more patients have chosen dental implants as their go-to option for tooth replacement.
Dental Implants Procedure
Like any surgical or invasive procedure, getting a dental implant is a multi-step process that begins with a consultation with your dentist. During the consultation, your dentist will discuss any potential benefits of a dental implant, and just like any invasive procedure carries risks, your dentist will discuss any possible risks that may happen.
If you agree to go ahead with the procedure, your dentist will begin preparing for the surgical placement of the implant. On the day of surgery, local anesthesia and/or sedation will be used so that you are comfortable during the entire process.
Then your dentist will cut into your gum tissue and drill holes for the implant post. After the artificial root is successfully placed, an abutment is placed on top of the post, and your gum tissue is then closed around the abutment.
As a final step, the artificial tooth will be applied once ready.
Afterwards, it is important for you to follow all postoperative instructions provided by your dentist in order to ensure an optimal recovery. For example, it may be recommended that you take antibiotics or anti-inflammatories in order to reduce any discomfort or possible infection associated with having a dental implant in place.
Additionally, regular visits to your dentist after the healing process is complete are important in order to make sure that the dental implant remains secure and functional in your mouth.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth Implants?
For dental implant aftercare, it is essential to follow the dental professional’s instructions to ensure that the implants are properly maintained and last a long time.
Proper dental hygiene is essential; brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluorapatite-containing toothpaste helps reduce the risk of dental implant failure. However, you can only brush your remaining teeth as normal after surgery, as you should avoid brushing over the implant site to avoid bleeding and irritation.
Additionally, avoiding acidic drinks like sodas can prevent dental erosion, which may also cause dental implant failure. Flossing every day between teeth is also recommended to help eliminate plaque buildup and maintain good oral hygiene.
Regular dental visits are important for dental implant care, as these allow dental professionals to check if there are any changes in terms of the shape and fit of your dental implants that require attention. It is important to remain mindful of these aftercare guidelines to maintain dental implants for the long term.
How Painful are Dental Implants?
No one likes to go through a painful experience, so how painful are dental implants? The truth is that the pain associated with a dental implant procedure does vary from person to person
Generally speaking, it is not uncommon for patients to report some degree of discomfort after the procedure. This may include soreness and swelling in the area around the implant, as well as some pain or tenderness at the implant site
Fortunately, these side effects can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses. It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s experience will be different, and there are a variety of options available to help manage any discomfort associated with the procedure.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants can provide a number of advantages for individuals looking for improved oral health and greater self-confidence. They replace the parts of a missing tooth that are underneath the gum line, meaning they look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.
The dental implant itself is durable and can last many years; unlike some other restorative treatments, it won’t decay or need to be replaced down the line.
Not only do they improve the appearance of an individual’s smile, but dental implants also allow for improved hygiene practices in the mouth since there are no gaps between teeth that would otherwise cause bacteria to accumulate and spread.
Lastly, subsequent to the successful placement of a dental implant or two, people often gain more confidence in both their smile and overall appearance – leading to improved self-esteem in social settings as well as overall better well-being.
Who is Eligible for Dental Implants?
Dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth and are a great solution for many patients. Dental implant candidates must meet certain criteria to make sure they are healthy enough for the process.
Generally, any adult that is in good overall health and has sufficient jawbone tissue to hold the implant can be considered eligible. However, some other factors, such as age, dental health history, gum disease, tobacco use, medications being taken, and lifestyle habits, may impact someone’s eligibility.
Dental professionals will thoroughly evaluate each individual case before recommending dental implants as the best solution for their patients.
Dental implants are popular for many reasons: they’re a permanent solution to tooth loss, they look and feel like your natural teeth, and they require no special care. Plus, the results are amazing! With proper implant placement and care, you can achieve a flawless smile that will last a lifetime.
Keep in mind that dental implants are a significant investment, but they’re worth it when you consider the long-term benefits.
Why Choose Infinity Dental Care?
If you’re considering dental implants, or have any questions about the procedure, don’t hesitate to contact Infinity Dental Care at (02) 9159 6237. Our team would be more than happy to help you achieve a healthy natural smile.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Dental implant procedures
https://www.perio.org/for-patients/periodontal-treatments-and-procedures/dental-implant-procedures/#:~:text=Technically%2C%20a%20dental%20implant%20is,root)%20and%20the%20prosthetic%20tooth
What are dental implants?
https://www.aaid-implant.org/faqs/what-are-dental-implants/
What are dental implants?
https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/
Post-operative pain management in dental implant surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33839939/
Implants
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/implants/